Regional Safety Manager Jeff Klante recently interviewed Jeannie Juarez, laborer/water truck driver, for an article about women in construction in the January/February 2025 issue of Southern California Contractors Association magazine.
“Our interview about her job in construction took an amazing turn, and her story is incredible,” Jeff says. “Jeannie is a war hero and a wonderful human being. She is humble, strong, and a highly skilled construction worker.”
What is your background?
Jeannie: I grew up in Huntington Park, California, graduated from South Gate High, and spent 25 years in the Army Reserves. I was deployed twice, once to Kuwait and once to Iraq. I was assigned to the transportation division. When I got to the base in the Middle East, I was surprised that I was assigned to provide security as the Convoy Commander of four armored humvees, escorting fuel tankers. Altogether, we completed over 30 missions, and during those missions, we only lost one soldier. I retired from the military as a Sergeant First Class.
When did you start working in construction?
Jeannie: In 2013, I joined the Laborer’s Union.
Why did you join the Laborer’s Union?
Jeannie: Better pay and better benefits. I’ve been able to buy my own home by working in construction.
Who watched your son while you were in the military and working in construction?
Jeannie: My family. My son is now 39 years old and an E-8 in the Marines. He makes me proud all the time.
What skills do you have that help you in construction?
Jeannie: I have a Class A License, I drove a forklift in a warehouse, I am currently a water truck driver/laborer, and I’ve learned various laborer skills, including traffic control. I’ve been part of a safety team, attended a laborers boot camp, and attended heavy equipment operator school prior to working in construction. I worked as a truck driver hauling construction materials at one time, and have also operated a traffic control attenuator truck.
Have you ever been disrespected on a job?
Jeannie: Yes, one man kept addressing me rudely. I spoke to a supervisor who took the guy’s side and laid me off. Although it wasn’t the best scenario, it freed me up for the position at Ames, where the respect is mutual and endless.
Is there anything that scares you in construction?
Jeannie: Only working on the freeway near traffic. I love my job. I like working on a team and the freedom I have as a water truck driver. I love to work outside, except when it’s cold.
What advice would you give to young women about going into construction?
Jeannie: Go for it! You can do it too. There are so many opportunities in construction for women such as laborers, engineers, architects—the list goes on. I say we are ready and with boots on the ground!